Shadow Work... without the work?

Hrokr

2mo

INTP

Taurus

Interesting post and quite the dilemma you seem to find within the process of shadow working. I can’t truly speak for anyone than myself but I have poked my head around some corners and heard some perspectives that may relate to your ponderings. First off, change is always difficult and even when it’s desired.. the actual work can get one too dirty for their own comfort. A second and more interesting thought is about how our brains/minds are kinda addicted to our habits and/or stress. Supposedly, when people suffer, say in a traumatic sense that leaves them with a present and continuing negative impression… even when they are outside of the specific circumstance, merely thinking about this triggers the fight or flight response and we perceive the dangers are happening all over again. The fight or flight is almost a thrill ride.. blood gets pumping and extra energy is available.. our brains are flooded with neurochemicals.. and it ultimately becomes a habit forming addiction to this. People have said that when they start to feel less stress.. they actually feel more tired.. which sounds ironic. But that just means our bodies were so accustomed to the rush.. without it.. we are operating at “normal” and “balanced” levels.. and they aren’t enough for the day to day we have become so used to. Thirdly.. sometimes it’s depression and anhedonia. Just the lack of vitality that allows one to keep on keeping on. Sometimes shadow work requires letting go.. and damn, that can be too painful. Hope this random ramble of a response sits on well 😅